Ozil had visited the club's London Colney training headquarters the week prior to his transfer in order to undergo the first phase of his medical, with both the Gunners and Real Madrid keen not to alert Tottenham to the 24-year-old's potential arrival.

And now Ozil's Germany and former Madrid team-mate Khedira has confirmed his prior knowledge of the transfer, whilst also expressing regret at los Blancos' decision to sell the former Werder Bremen star.

"I was informed two or three days ago, that's why it came as no surprise for me," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"Personally, I regret that he leaves. It's a loss because I think that Mesut can make the difference."

Ozil left the Santiago Bernabeu just hours after world record signing Gareth Bale was unveiled by the Spanish club, and departs having scored or assisted 108 goals in 159 appearances.